North Pole man accused of sexually abusing young daughter

FAIRBANKS (AP) -- A 47-year-old North Pole man is accused of sexually assaulting his young daughter for several years.

Steve R. Decker was arrested Monday on charges of sexual abuse of a minor.

According to the criminal complaint, suspicions surfaced in September when a doctor examining the 8-year-old girl noticed some unusual injuries. The doctor told the girl's mother and the Division of Family and Youth Services of the possibility of sexual abuse.

Alaska State Troopers said the girl told them her father started the sexual advances when she was 5 years old. According to the complaint, the girl said Decker threatened to give away her dog and kill her bird if she told anyone.